Another Road Game, Another Victory for the Raiders…

Last Sunday’s game against the Washington Redskins got off to a slow start for the Raider offense, as Kerry Collins threw an interception which was returned for a touchdown. That touchdown, however, would be the only one of the day for the Redskins.

The Redskins are “one of the most physical teams we play,” running back LaMont Jordan said. “We struggled early” head coach Norv Turner said. However, he felt that the second half “showed the character of our team.” At halftime, he talked to the team “about what we need to do… make plays.”

Indeed, the Raiders came out and showed that they meant business in the second quarter. Jerry Porter ended a quick four play drive with a 49 yard touchdown reception, and Sebastian Janikowski tacked on the point after successfully. Porter was also impressive with a tight hold on the ball after an unbelievable smash hit. “I tried to catch it and get across his face real quick,” he said after the game. “He knocked the hell out of me.” LaMont Jordan continued the streak of Raider victories when he has more than 20 carries, with 22 (check) carries today for 55 yards. He also two very uncharacteristic drops on crucial drives in the downs in the fourth quarter. He expressed that he was disappointed with his play today, saying “I don’t consider (52 yards) to be a good game,” but stressed that he feels that the Raiders are still in the hunt for the playoffs if they win the rest of their games.

Quarterback Kerry Collins, who struggled in the first half but came out strong in the second, talked about the support and pep talks that he received at half time from his teammates. “(I got) a lot of support from a lot of teammates.” He also adamantly declared “I care about what goes on, I care about how I play, I care when I hurt the team.” He also discussed Porter, saying “J.P. played a heck of a game today. He’s a heck of a receiver… he steps up when we need him to step up.” Collins ended up 19/36, for 289 yards, with one touchdown and one interception.

The defense held the Redskins to no offensive touchdowns today. Stuart Schweigert had a huge game, and led the defense with eight tackles and one assist. Other standouts on defense included Nnamdi Asomugha, with five tackles and one assist, and Derrick Burgess, with 4 tackles and 2 sacks. Turner talked about Burgess after the game, saying “Derrick Burgess is one of the really good young pass rushers in this league.”

Continuing what many Raider fans consider to be questionable refereeing, there was yet another controversial call today. LaMont Jordan appeared to make it into the end zone, but the ball was spotted at the one yard line. “I know I got in,” he said later. “I think the referees did a good job of trying to give the Redskins the game. Lets look at the reality of the situation… it’s just ridiculous.”

An emotional Turner also revealed that the team presented him with a game ball after the game in the locker room. He also talked about his time in Washington, D.C., mentioning there were individuals that felt he didn’t use talent in Washington at that time wisely, but pointing out that that talent didn’t turn out to be quite so talented. “I had seven great years here,” he said.

LaMont Jordan summarized the feelings of the fans when he said, “The way people will get their spirits up about Raiders football is we have to win… a win cures all.”